Test drive and close look at the MOZA CS Wheel - A great entry level wheel for Direct Drive Sim Racing
The MOZA CS Wheel is the entry-level wheel rim and button box from MOZA Racing.
While the MOZA R9 wheelbase keeps making waves in the Sim Racing community, this budget-friendly wheel promises to be an excellent entry point into direct drive sim racing.
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Pros of the MOZA CS Wheel
Overall build quality is equal to the more expensive MOZA RS racing wheel
Aside from the use of synthetic leather the build quality is equal to the RS. The cheaper price is reflected by 4 fewer buttons and no analog paddles.
Metal caps on rotary encoders
These provide a solid feel, particularly without gloves which is superior to more expensive wheels from Fanatec for example.
Quality magnetic shifters with photoelectronic sensors
These magnetic shifters provide a very solid and authentic feel. This is important if you are considering the Fanatec Gran Turismo DD Pro wheel, which has metal-infused plastic spring-loaded shifters.
Versatile design with 320mm Diameter
This is a good-sized wheel to suit a wide range of driving. While a little big for formula-style driving, the round design is perfect for drift and rally. All buttons and encoders are well placed for easy use.
Excellent quick release system
This NRG style quick release also found on Simagic and Immsource wheels is by far the best OEM quick release. Significantly more rigid than the Fanatec QR1 system, there is much less chance of accidental damage to internal pins.
Cons of the MOZA CS Racing Wheel
Button box not offered stand-alone
If you have a MOZA wheelbase and want to use a third-party rim (Perhaps something with an open top or different shape) you can do that, but need to purchase this button box as part of the complete wheel with the included rim.
No USB Connection
A proprietary Bluetooth protocol makes for a seamless wireless connection with MOZA wheelbases, but will not be compatible with other wheelbases.
No Analog paddles or option to upgrade
There is no provision for adding analog paddles to the CS Steering wheel with third-party add-ons.
If you decide you want analog paddles, you will be up for a new wheel.
More flex than some other wheels
The rim itself has more flex than some other wheels. This was obvious when intentionally pulling and twisting at the wheel, but was not an issue while driving.
Slight vibration in rim when shifting gears
When pulling the magnetic shifters, you can feel a slight vibration throughout the rim.
Conclusions - Who is it for?
With MOZA offering one of the best value direct drive wheelbases on the market in the R9, it’s great to see that Sim Racers also now have the option of a cheaper wheel, which integrates seamlessly into the MOZA ecosystem.
You can now get a direct drive wheelbase, load cell pedals and a high-quality wheel for under 900 USD.
If you know you want analog paddles, then you’ll need to go for the RS wheel. Aside from a few differences in functionality, there is very little between the CS racing wheel and the RS wheel. This highlights the good value of this wheel.
If you’re looking at getting up and running at the cheapest price possible this is a very good wheel. The MOZA CS Wheel will tick the boxes for the vast majority of people.
Discount Code and Where to Buy
If you’re still unsure the MOZA Racing ecosystem is right for you, be sure to look through our catalogue of Sim Racing hardware reviews to help you make the best decision for your needs!
If our MOZA Racing reviews have helped you decide what the best sim racing gear is for you, and you would like to support our work at Boosted Media at no additional cost, follow the affiliate link below and we will earn a small commission from your purchase.
Please make sure you accept cookies when prompted or we won’t receive the commission.
